TIFFEN 44ND21 Neutral Density Filter 049383146844 4X4 ND2.1

( Brand: Tiffen ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 44ND21 ), ( Part Type: Filter ), ( Filter Size: 4x4 In ), ( Filter Shape: Square ), ( Filter Effects: Neutral Density ), ( UPC: 049383146844 )

Review TIFFEN 4x4 Neutral Density 2.1 Filter

The Tiffen 44ND2.1 is a high-performance, square-format neutral density (ND) filter designed to elevate your photography by mastering light control with precision and clarity. Crafted from premium optical glass, this 4x4-inch ND2.1 filter delivers a consistent, uniform reduction of light by two and one-tenth stops, allowing photographers to achieve seamless long-exposure effects whether capturing silky waterfalls, dreamy motion blur in traffic scenes, or creamy bokeh in low-light landscapes without sacrificing image sharpness or color fidelity. The filter s square format ensures a clean, unobstructed view through the lens, eliminating the need for additional adapter rings, while its durable, scratch-resistant coating protects against smudges and wear, maintaining optimal optical performance over time. Ideal for both still and video applications, the 44ND2.1 excels in scenarios where exposure adjustments are critical, such as astrophotography, architectural shoots, or dynamic street photography, where precise control over shutter speed is essential. Its neutral density ensures no color cast or distortion, preserving the true tones of your scene while granting you the creative freedom to experiment with slower shutter speeds in bright conditions. Whether paired with a wide-angle or telephoto lens, this filter s robust construction and reliable optical quality make it a versatile addition to any photographer s toolkit, empowering you to push the boundaries of your craft with confidence.

The Tiffen 44ND2.1 is a 4x4 format neutral density (ND) filter with an optical density of 2.1, which reduces the amount of light entering the lens by 14 stops. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.

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### **Pros of the Tiffen 44ND2.1**

1. **High Optical Density (2.1 stops)** This filter provides a significant reduction in light, allowing for long exposure photography in bright conditions without needing a smaller aperture or slower shutter speeds. It s ideal for smooth water, silky clouds, and motion blur effects.

2. **High-Quality Optical Construction** Tiffen is a well-regarded brand known for producing durable, scratch-resistant, and color-accurate filters. The ND2.1 is made with multi-coated glass to minimize flare and ghosting, ensuring sharp, clear images.

3. **Versatility for Long Exposures** The 2.1 stop density is useful in a variety of scenarios, including daytime landscapes, cityscapes, and architectural photography where you need to slow down the shutter without darkening the scene excessively.

4. **Durable and Weather-Sealed** Tiffen filters are built to withstand outdoor use, including rain, dust, and humidity. The metal frame and screw-in design provide stability and protection for the glass.

5. **No Color Cast** Unlike some cheaper ND filters, the Tiffen 44ND2.1 maintains neutral color reproduction, ensuring your images remain true to life without unwanted tint.

6. **Compatibility with Other Filters** Since it s a screw-in filter, you can stack it with other Tiffen filters (e.g., polarizers, graduated ND) if needed, though this can reduce light further and may require adjustments.

7. **Professional-Grade Build** The filter is designed for serious photographers who demand reliability and performance, making it a long-term investment.

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### **Cons of the Tiffen 44ND2.1**

1. **Expensive** Compared to budget ND filters, the Tiffen 44ND2.1 is priced higher, which may be a barrier for hobbyists or those on a tight budget. A single 4x4 ND2.1 can cost around $200 $300, depending on the retailer.

2. **Bulky for Medium Format** The 4x4 format is large and heavy, which can be cumbersome to carry, especially if you re already using multiple filters. It may not fit on all medium-format lenses, requiring adapters or step-up rings.

3. **Potential for Vignetting** While high-quality, some users report slight vignetting (darkening at the edges) when using ND filters, though this is often minimal with Tiffen s construction.

4. **Limited Use in Low Light** A 2.1 stop filter is too strong for very low-light conditions (e.g., night photography). You d need a lighter ND (e.g., 0.3 or 0.6) for those scenarios, requiring additional filters.

5. **Weight Adds to Lens Bulk** The filter adds noticeable weight to your lens, which can affect ergonomics during long shoots, especially if you re already using a heavy medium-format camera body.

6. **Not Reversible** Unlike some ND filters that can be flipped to adjust density, the Tiffen 44ND2.1 is fixed at 2.1 stops, so you can t use it as a variable ND.

7. **Adapter Needed for Some Lenses** If your lens has a smaller thread size (e.g., 77mm), you ll need a step-up ring to attach the 4x4 filter, adding to the cost and potential for light loss.

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### **Conclusion**

The Tiffen 44ND2.1 is one of the best high-density neutral density filters available for medium-format photography. Its optical quality, durability, and effectiveness in bright conditions make it a worthwhile investment for photographers who prioritize performance and longevity. However, the cost and bulkiness may not justify the purchase for casual users or those who primarily shoot in low-light situations. If you frequently shoot long exposures in daylight and can afford the price, this filter delivers exceptional results. For budget-conscious photographers or those who need versatility, a lower-density ND or a variable ND might be a better alternative.

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### **Recommendation**

- You shoot medium-format long exposures regularly in bright conditions.

- You value high optical quality and durability over cost.

- You re willing to invest in a filter that will last for years without losing performance.

- You have a lens that can accommodate the 4x4 format (or are prepared to use adapters).

- You re on a tight budget and can find a similarly high-quality ND filter at a lower price (e.g., from B W or Lee).

- You need a variable ND filter for flexibility in different lighting conditions.

- You primarily shoot in low light and won t use the 2.1 stop density often.

- You prefer a more compact format (e.g., 77mm or 82mm) for easier portability.

For most professional medium-format landscape photographers, the Tiffen 44ND2.1 is a strong recommendation due to its reliability and performance. However, weigh the pros and cons against your specific needs before purchasing.

Details:

Film, memory cards, filters, tapes, paper, bulbs, CD, DVDs, etc. Once unwrapped. Darkens Entire Image. By slowing your exposure time or increasing aperture, you are able to control depth of field and convey movement more easily. 2.1 solid ND filter darkens the image, allowing you to photograph with a longer shutter speed or wider aperture than normally required.

This filter is made using Color Core technology, a process that involves laminating the substrate between 2 pieces of optical glass and grinding flat to tolerance 1/10,000th an inch. Filter does not affect coloration of the image and is ideal for use with other filters. Neutral density filters do not affect the coloration of image and are ideal for pairing with other. This filter measures 4 x / 101.6 101.6mm.

Allows Reduced Shutter Speed. This 2.1 density creates a darkening of the entire image, allowing you to photograph with wider aperture or slower shutter speed than normally required.

part #: 44nd21 prices

• $129.00-$439.00

specifications filtecam:

• brand: Tiffen
• mpn: 44nd21
• part type: Filter
• filter size: 4x4 In
• filter shape: Square
• filter effects: Neutral Density
• upc: 049383146844

offer filtecam:

• started: April 14, 2026
• options: Ship-to-home
• availability: In Stock
• sold: 0
• quantity: 1

payments filtecam:

• wallet: Paypal
• credit card: Discover
• other

seller filtecam:

• rating: 98.4%
• # reviews: 76553
• city: Brooklyn, New York

general filtecam:

• condition: New
• Cameras Photo > Lenses Filters > Filters

returns filtecam:

• paid by: Buyer
• policy: Returns Accepted
• time: 30 Days
• method: Money back

shipping filtecam:

• cost: $0.00
• class: Standard
• service: USPS First Class, UPS Ground
• transit: 4-10 Days
• carrier: USPS, UPS
• type: Fixed

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